Grand Rapids Rowing Association Newshttps://grrowing.org/
Grand Rapids Rowing Association blog postsGrand Rapids Rowing AssociationWild Apricot - membership management software and moreenFri, 24 May 2019 18:04:06 GMTFri, 24 May 2019 18:04:06 GMTSat, 20 Apr 2019 17:10:40 GMTNew Trailer!<p>Thanks to all those who worked tirelessly to fundraise for our equipment fund. Our efforts are paying off! Coach Dave is on his way home with a new (to us) trailer, which gives our teams so much more flexibility in the regattas we host and those we travel to throughout the season. Thanks to everyone who made this purchase possible. Now, we can load up our new boats on our new trailer.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/7295941
https://grrowing.org/news/7295941Julie BennettThu, 11 Apr 2019 17:42:38 GMTBoard Meeting: New Location<p>The April board meeting set for Thursday, April 11, will be at Optimal Wellness on Cascade Road. The meeting time will be 7pm, as stated on our calendar. The policy for room rental at all local KDL locations has changed, so we may be looking for another venue for future meetings.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/7278063
https://grrowing.org/news/7278063Julie BennettFri, 08 Mar 2019 18:45:06 GMTThe GR Team Store is now Open<p>Make sure you come into the 2019 Spring Season with the proper gear! Our GR Rowing Team Store is now open. Use the link and Team Code below to order your GR Rowing gear. The store is open from March 8 - 24 (closes at midnight). All orders will be delivered 2-3 weeks after closing date. Pick up your order at the boathouse during open row hours: 5 - 8pm weekdays or 8 - 10am on Saturdays. Expect the orders to be delivered by mid-April.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/7206655
https://grrowing.org/news/7206655Julie BennettFri, 01 Mar 2019 16:45:44 GMTBoathouse Work Day<p>IMPORTANT reminder to all club members. Our first 2019 Boathouse Work Day is March 2. We will meet at 10am (this gives our crew time to do erg training in the morning) and work until 1pm. Please wear warm clothes and bring work gloves and your own hot, morning beverage. We will be moving equipment, racking new boats, and doing some general cleaning.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/7193746
https://grrowing.org/news/7193746Julie BennettMon, 14 Jan 2019 20:10:09 GMTWinter Erg Training: New and Experienced Rowers!<p>Grand Rapids Rowing has a winter facility and we are excited about our winter rowing sessions. <strong>New rowers</strong>: your first visit is only $5! You will learn technique on the indoor rower that will build your strength, stamina and get you ready for our on-the-water sessions this spring and summer. You can pay $10/session (2 hours) or buy a 10 session punch card for $80. <strong>Club members</strong>: Winter conditioning is included in the cost of membership. Wednesday Session: February 6 - March 20; 6-8pm. Saturday session: February 8 - March 16; 8-10am. Join for as many as you can and let's make the 2019 season fast and strong!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/7000552
https://grrowing.org/news/7000552Julie BennettMon, 22 Oct 2018 20:09:53 GMTGRRA Year End Party!<p>All adult members - our party is scheduled for Thursday, November 8, from 6 - 11pm. Be sure to mark your calendar and clear the date for a raucous celebration of the 2018 rowing season. Whether you've been part of the team for years, a new member, or a member who only rows on occasion, ALL adult rowers are encouraged to join us. Your spouse or significant other is highly encouraged to join in the fun!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/6858867
https://grrowing.org/news/6858867Julie BennettMon, 01 Oct 2018 18:49:04 GMTGR Fall Classic: Volunteers<p>Our GR club will be hosting the GR Fall Classic on Saturday, October 13, at our boathouse. Please see the Events listing for all the details. We are in need of LOTS of volunteers, from Juniors, Parents and Adult rowers. Please click the attached link to submit your volunteer time.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://goo.gl/forms/ysO83hvQ5G2aZFaI2"><font style="font-size: 14px;" face="Optima-Regular">https://goo.gl/forms/ysO83hvQ5G2aZFaI2</font></a><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/6701329
https://grrowing.org/news/6701329Julie BennettMon, 30 Jul 2018 17:51:46 GMTMCI was a Great Success!<p>Congratulations to all the teams competing at MCI on Saturday, July 28. Our Junior - Adult teams has a tremendous showing and many personal records broken and medals won. Thanks to all the parents who brought food and water and to the teams of rowers who worked so well together to get the boats ready, the oars to the dock, and everything packed and cleaned.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/6405341
https://grrowing.org/news/6405341Julie BennettSat, 30 Jun 2018 16:55:52 GMTBoats, Bagels and Bacon!<p>Our End-of-Session regatta is scheduled for Saturday, July 14. This is our usually BBB with a twist - we will be serving a breakfast brunch after the boat races. All adult and junior rowers are invited to welcome our LTRowers to the boathouse. Please bring a morning beverage or food (fruit, bagels, cream cheese, muffins) to share. Recreational and Competitive teams will still be rowing from 8-9:30 that morning.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/6351857
https://grrowing.org/news/6351857Julie BennettSun, 17 Jun 2018 21:15:57 GMTGrand Regatta: Meijer State Games of Michigan<p>The GRRA will be hosting the Rowing for the Meijer State Games of Michigan. All races will be held on Saturday, June 23 from 8:00am - 3:00pm. This exciting regatta will be held at our club boathouse @ 291 North Park NE, just north of Riverside Park and south of the 5/3 Ballpark. We're looking forward to hosting rowers from all over the mid-west and beyond. The 1000m races will take place on our picturesque Grand River. Spectators will be able to watch the races from the North Park bridge, our boathouse and the White Pine Trail observation platforms.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/6317524
https://grrowing.org/news/6317524Julie BennettWed, 06 Jun 2018 18:19:11 GMTBBB is June 13<p>Come one, come all to our 1st Boats, Burgers &amp; Beverages (Beer) regatta of the 2018 season. Let's show our newest LTR rowers what a fun and energetic group we really are! The fun starts at 6pm and ends around 8ish. Please remember to come ready to row AND bring a dish to pass, a chair or blanket, and your own favorite beverages. The club will supply the burgers, dogs and fixings. We will share boats with the new LTR graduates for 3 short races, then have time to socialize and share good food.&nbsp;</p>
<p>**If you are an LTR graduate, please be sure to invite your family and friends to watch you race. Spectators can watch from the dock or the riverbank.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/6290553
https://grrowing.org/news/6290553Julie BennettSun, 15 Apr 2018 02:48:18 GMTGazelle Girl Aid Station<p>Please be aware that the Gazelle Girl race is Sunday, April 22. Even though we do not have regular rowing teams on Sunday, there may be individuals who row from the boathouse. There will be an Aid Station at the Greenleaf entrance between 6:30 - 11:30am. Please use extreme caution when entering or exiting the boathouse driveway.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/6099551
https://grrowing.org/news/6099551Julie BennettFri, 06 Apr 2018 17:32:22 GMTQuick Spring News<p>The dock is in and the boathouse is ready. Thanks to all the members who came to the winter Work Days to prepare for the season. Please be sure to check with your coaches as to the conditions for rowing. Our Board Meeting is April 19; please plan to attend. Junior Rowing is in full swing and they are preparing for their spring sprint season. Thanks to those who ordered fruit from our Junior Team. The spring clothing order will be at the boathouse on April 7th. Lots of activity going on in committee and around the river - stay informed and involved. &nbsp;<em>Reminder: if your 2018 membership fees have not been paid, you do not row. You can join/renew online via PayPal or use the Drop Box at the boathouse.&nbsp;</em></p>https://grrowing.org/news/6050869
https://grrowing.org/news/6050869Julie BennettSat, 10 Mar 2018 18:27:21 GMTCoaching Opportunities at Northview<p><font style="font-size: 16px;" color="#000000" face="HelveticaNeue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Lucida Grande, sans-serif"><strong><em><font style="font-size: 13px;">Northview High School Rowing is seeking a third coach for the 2018 spring season.&nbsp;&nbsp;While desirable, an extensive rowing background is not required.&nbsp;&nbsp;More important are group leadership skills and general knowledge of athletic training.&nbsp;&nbsp;A high value is placed on keeping a favorable coach to rower of about 1 to 12 in order to provide more personalized instruction and be able to emphasize small boat rowing.&nbsp;</font></em></strong></font></p>
<p><font style="font-size: 16px;" color="#000000" face="HelveticaNeue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Lucida Grande, sans-serif"><strong><em><font style="font-size: 13px;">Northview shares the Jupiter Boathouse with Rockford.&nbsp;&nbsp;Practices are from 3:00 to 5:30 pm beginning on March 12<sup>th</sup>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The team is well equipped and enjoys excellent parent and school support.&nbsp;&nbsp;For those so inclined, there are additional opportunities to coach summer and fall rowing.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br></font></em></strong></font></p>
<p><font style="font-size: 16px;" color="#000000" face="HelveticaNeue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Lucida Grande, sans-serif"><strong><em><font style="font-size: 13px;">Also open is a middle school coaching position.&nbsp; The middle school program is non-competitive and practices are just three days per week, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, form 5:45 to 7:30 pm.&nbsp; The seven week program begins on April 9.&nbsp;<br></font></em></strong></font></p>
<p><strong><font style="font-size: 16px;" color="#000000" face="HelveticaNeue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, Lucida Grande, sans-serif"><em><font style="font-size: 13px;">To learn more, contact Rick Anderson at 616-581-5920 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rowingrick@chartermi.net">rowingrick@chartermi.net</a></font></em></font></strong><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/5950749
https://grrowing.org/news/5950749Julie BennettFri, 02 Mar 2018 16:19:07 GMTOur Team Store is OPEN!<p>Check out all the ways you can show off our great club! We have shirts, jackets, visors, and more! Members, parents and GRRA enthusiasts can submit orders through Sunday, March 18. Be sure to check out the new selections of "high visibility" shirts and hoodies. Click&nbsp;<a href="http://teamchaser.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;then enter the code: GRROWING18. Items can be picked up at the boathouse. Contact Amy West, Membership Director, if you have any questions.&nbsp;<br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/5885221
https://grrowing.org/news/5885221Julie BennettSat, 24 Feb 2018 15:22:06 GMTTeam Store Opening Soon!<p>Our GRRA team store will be open from Thursday, March 1, through Sunday, March 18. We have our stock items with our GR logo as well as some great, new items. If you are looking for high visibility shirts, look no further. We will have some blue, green and pink choices. No orange, but we could add that for fall hunting season. Watch for notices on Facebook, in our Events, and in our March club newsletter.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5875452
https://grrowing.org/news/5875452Julie BennettFri, 02 Feb 2018 02:24:53 GMTForest Hills Eastern High School rowing coach<p>Hello GRRA members,</p>
<p>Forest Hills Eastern High School is actively seeking a rowing coach. If anybody is interested, or knows of anybody that may be interested, please checkout the link below.</p>
<p>Thanks for any and all help.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://www.applitrack.com/kent/OnlineApp/default.aspx?choosedistrict=true&amp;applitrackclient=37098&amp;category=Athletics%2FActivities"><font style="font-size: 13px;" color="#196AD4" face="Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif">https://www.applitrack.com/kent/OnlineApp/default.aspx?choosedistrict=true&amp;applitrackclient=37098&amp;category=Athletics%2FActivities</font></a><br></p>
<p>Link Above.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5713807
https://grrowing.org/news/5713807Gregory MomberMon, 29 Jan 2018 20:50:54 GMTWelcome to 2018! Club Newsletter<p>Welcome to a new year and the start of the 2018 rowing season. Our Juniors have already been hard at work participating in winter conditioning. They are looking forward to a great season. At our January board meeting, our 2018 Board of Directors was voted on and approved. We have another great team assembled! Be sure to click on the <a href="https://grrowing.org/resources/Documents/Issue%2018.pdf" target="_blank">Issue 18</a> link to download the latest newsletter. Take advantage of the volunteer opportunities coming up! It's the best way to stay involved with the club.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5707853
https://grrowing.org/news/5707853Julie BennettWed, 24 Jan 2018 00:48:10 GMTBoathouse Work Day<p>Join us for a winter work day at the boathouse. We will meet at 9am and work until approximately 1pm. This work day will include making and relocating racks and hangers, general motor maintenance and possible flooring for the boathouse bays. We need all members to attend, as these are large undertakings. Many hands make light work. Please bring your drills, drivers, step ladders, chop saws, and a good attitude. See you on Saturday, February 3, 2018.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5699180
https://grrowing.org/news/5699180Julie BennettMon, 08 Jan 2018 01:28:47 GMTWinter Fundaraising<p>We are still conducting our Pop Can Drive so we hope that you are saving your receipts to add to our equipment fund. Also, Amy West and friends have put together another afternoon of line dancing and fun! See our Events page for the details on our January 21 FUNdraiser. Hope to see you there! Be sure to bring your friends, family . . . and Pop Can Drive donations.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5666384
https://grrowing.org/news/5666384Julie BennettTue, 26 Dec 2017 08:05:41 GMTJanuary Meeting<p>Be sure to attend our January board meeting. We will be voting on the new GRRA board, making decisions about the 2018 season and hearing from our various committees for this year's budget. Go to the Events page for the full list of officers and directors.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5648534
https://grrowing.org/news/5648534Julie BennettThu, 07 Dec 2017 16:37:08 GMTPlanning Meeting<p>Our annual GRRA Planning Meeting is this Saturday, December 9, at the Comstock Park Library. We will meet from 8am - 12noon. Topics include boathouse maintenance and upgrades, equipment needs and usage, program details, and board nominations. We appreciate the way each and every member steps up and takes charge. Your dedication to the club is unsurpassed!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5618649
https://grrowing.org/news/5618649Julie BennettThu, 09 Nov 2017 00:44:24 GMTLine Dancing Fundraiser!<p>Have you always wanted to line dance but never had the chance? You've wanted to look cool out on the dance floor, but there was no one to teach the dance moves? Come join the GRRA adults and juniors for a great afternoon of fun and dancing - Sunday, November 19 from 2-4pm. Tommy Smart, dance instructor, will be guiding us through a few dances. There will be snacks, drinks and lots of fun. Invite your friends and bring your family. Everyone is welcome. See the Events tab for all the details. $10/adult and $7/youngster - all proceeds go toward new equipment for the boathouse.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5577946
https://grrowing.org/news/5577946Julie BennettTue, 17 Oct 2017 01:13:00 GMTDock Out Day is Approaching<p>We have had a lot of hard work put into maintaining and improving the boathouse and equipment this year and things have gone very well – <u><em>thank you to everyone who has contributed!</em></u>&nbsp;</p>
<p>As we look ahead, there is still a lot of work to do, so be sure to visit the Dock Out event or read over the email to get all the details. We will be pulling the docks out and storing them, working on rowing shells, doing motor maintenance, and general organizing and cleaning of the boathouse. Use the <a href="http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b4bacab29a0fa7-dock" target="_blank">Sign Up Genius</a> to volunteer for tasks. See you there!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5317728
https://grrowing.org/news/5317728Julie BennettMon, 02 Oct 2017 18:09:10 GMTIt's Fall: Practice Meets Early<p>Now that we are into the fall season, adult recreational rowing will meet at 5:30 - 7:30pm. The sun sets earlier so we need to keep everyone safe and be off the water while we still have sunlight. The weather has been excellent for rowing, so if you have missed our fall season, be sure to come on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30pm.</p>
<p><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/5291131
https://grrowing.org/news/5291131Julie BennettTue, 12 Sep 2017 19:37:40 GMTIt's Already a Busy Fall<p>There is a lot of activity around the boathouse this fall. Our Junior program has begun their fall season - we have over 30 students in our program! That's amazing! Thanks to all the Juniors who came out to help keep the Grand River and surrounding area clean.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our adult program has an energetic LTR finishing up their session this month. We will have our next BBB on Thursday, September 28 @ 6:00pm. All rowers are encouraged to come and join in the fun. Our Masters competitive has had one fall regatta - Traverse City - and will compete in 3 more this fall; Head of the Rock, Head of the Hooch, and a tentative regatta in PA. Many adult rowers will be competing in the Grand Marathon on September 30. All rowers are encouraged to row and/or volunteer.</p>
<p>We have a Boathouse Work Day scheduled for Saturday, September 16. We will be clearing brush, cleaning up the boathouse, and installing our translucent panels, which will help with interior light. Be sure to sign up on our FB page.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5076761
https://grrowing.org/news/5076761Julie BennettThu, 17 Aug 2017 01:51:00 GMTJunior team Open House<p>Are you a high school student who is new to the sport of rowing? Are you interested and want to find out more? Drop by during our Open House to learn about the team, meet our energetic and experienced coaches, tour the boathouse and get all the details on how you can row with the junior team this fall. We'll be open from 5 - 7pm on Wednesday, August 30. Hope to see you there and coach you on the river!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/5033291
https://grrowing.org/news/5033291Julie BennettTue, 04 Jul 2017 17:29:23 GMTNew Classes begin July 11<p>Two new classes begin on Tuesday, July 11. Our LTR 105 class will meet on Tuesday and Thursday nights. David Lemmenes will be coaching this session. Click on Adult Class to register. Also beginning in July is our LTR 201 and 202 class: sculling for those who've already been sweep rowing and want to add sculling to their list of skills. Our classes are filling up, so be sure to register today!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4932696
https://grrowing.org/news/4932696Julie BennettTue, 20 Jun 2017 01:23:11 GMTGrand Regatta: Location Change<p>The Grand Regatta June 24 and 25, will be hosted at the GRRA Boathouse - <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/291+North+Park+NE+Grand+RApids,+MI+49505/@43.0265744,-85.6653799,16z/data=!3m1!4b1" target="_blank">291 North Park NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505</a>. This is just north of Riverside Park and south of the 5/3 Ballpark. Our boathouse shares the drive with Greenleaf Landscaping. There will be signs directing participants, boat trailers and spectators to the designated parking areas. We're looking forward to a great regatta!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4908333
https://grrowing.org/news/4908333Julie BennettThu, 15 Jun 2017 03:16:50 GMTThe Grand Regatta<p>The GRRA is hosting <a href="https://www.regattacentral.com/regatta/?job_id=5156" target="_blank">The Grand Regatta</a> again this year. We are excited about this 2-day event. The Juniors will be racing on Saturday, June 24 with the Masters races taking place on Sunday, June 25. This event requires a lot of adult and junior volunteers and we have always been so fortunate to have great people stepping in to make this a premier event of the sprint season. Members, parents and juniors, click <a href="http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b4bacab29a0fa7-thegrand" target="_blank">HERE</a> to sign up for volunteer positions. There are trainings Monday and Tuesday night @ Riverside Park.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4901229
https://grrowing.org/news/4901229Julie BennettFri, 26 May 2017 23:32:12 GMTMay News!<p>The boathouse is buzzing with activity! We had a great turnout for our first Learn To Row day on May 20. The weather was beautiful and lots of new rowers got the chance to find out why we love the sport so much! Our next LTR classes begin soon so be sure to sign up. Our Juniors ended a fantastic spring sprint season and the coaches are looking forward to a great summer camp schedule for experienced and new rowers. All 8th - 12th graders are encouraged to sign up. Our Masters competitive team kicked off its season and all adult rowers are looking forward to our summer sprint regattas.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4854900
https://grrowing.org/news/4854900Julie BennettFri, 28 Apr 2017 12:45:52 GMTLTR News<p>We are excited to get on the water. Unfortunately, because of low registrations, we have had to cancel our LTR 101 and 102 classes for this spring. We are diligently working to set up another free LTR Day in May (possible date is May 20) so watch our site for more information. Our next class begins on Wednesday, May 31, so be sure to sign up! We are also working on offering a morning class on T/Th from June 13 - July 20 - <em>with no class the week of the July 4th holiday</em>. Please join our LTRow in GR Facebook page and visit this site for updated information.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4789744
https://grrowing.org/news/4789744Julie BennettThu, 13 Apr 2017 11:39:10 GMTLTR Day is Cancelled!<p>We must regretfully cancel our first LTR Day of the rowing season. The water level is dangerously high, which makes it unsafe for rowers. The current is very strong and there is added debris in the river. Please stayed tuned, as we hope to fit another LTR Day in May. Our next scheduled LTR Day is Saturday, June 3. We would love to have you row with us on the river!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4749981
https://grrowing.org/news/4749981Julie BennettWed, 05 Apr 2017 15:29:28 GMTLearn To Row Day<p>We are excited about the 2017 season and we are kicking it off with a community-wide Learn To Row Day on Saturday, April 15. Our mission is "Community wellness through rowing" and we take that seriously. We want to get our Grand Rapids community involved in a sport that we feel is one of the best. It combines exercise and teamwork with the bonus of spending time on a beautiful river. Come join us for a FREE day of rowing - we provide the coaching, the boats and the fun. Make sure you wear comfortable clothes (and athletic socks) and bring an open mind and sense of adventure. It's Open House style, so come anytime between 9am - 1pm. See you on the water!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4717336
https://grrowing.org/news/4717336Julie BennettSun, 08 Jan 2017 20:11:26 GMT2017 Winter Erg Training<p>Learn to master the erg in our 3-week classes. Jump start your erg skills before the spring rowing season or learn to master the erg at the gym. We will focus on proper erg technique, the slide, the catch, the drive and recovery, strength training, stroke rates and improving your “split time”. Two 3-week classes are offered in the morning or evening sessions. Register for any individual class or take both back-to-back to level-up your erg game.<br></p>
<p>Rowing on the ergometer is a great way to stay in shape, practice the rowing stroke, and keep at the top of your game during the winter months. “Erging" is also great for learning the rowing stroke before rowing on the water. Personalized instruction is provided in each session, which is good for beginners, intermediate or advanced rowers. No prior experience is required.<br></p>
<p><a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/classes">Winter Erg Training class schedule and registration</a></p>https://grrowing.org/news/4516415
https://grrowing.org/news/4516415Sun, 18 Sep 2016 01:36:29 GMTJunior News!<p>The Junior teams have been busy already this fall. Our Novice and Varsity have been practicing and our Beginner class just began with a record number of new rowers!&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Honey Crisp apple fundraiser was a huge success! Our parent boosters bagged over a ton of Honey Crisp apples! Well done, team.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Don't forget to sign up for the Blood Drive.&nbsp;<font style="font-size: 14px;" color="#000000">The Grand Rapids Rowing Association has partnered with Michigan Blood to host a blood drive at the boathouse. Join us for this very important ‘GRRA Gives Back’ event on Saturday, October 1, from 9:30am-2:00pm. A mobile donation bus will be set up in the boathouse parking lot.</font></p>
<p><a href="https://grrowing.org/EmailTracker/LinkTracker.ashx?linkAndRecipientCode=xSV267VCp0Ah8VJRWf4p8J%2b%2bcATnRYOb%2f6%2f8pV7aGDCY%2bLMPdD8jvHIr3STjEX7gNtIKkGNEyyg7RUKZWBBBRsJaVbmaFy7X%2f01NpScZ2w0%3d"><font style="font-size: 14px;" color="#000000">Please visit our event page to schedule your donation time.</font></a></p>
<p><font style="font-size: 14px;" color="#000000">The blood drive is open to all rowers (age 16 and older), coaches, families and friends as well as the public. Please spread the word!</font></p>
<p><font style="font-size: 14px;" color="#000000">Junior rowers who would like to donate, aged 16 years and older, should schedule their donation time after practice between noon - 2:00pm.</font></p>
<p><font style="font-size: 14px;" color="#000000">Michigan Blood provides 600 units (pints) of blood each day to area hospitals. Blood donations help burn victims, people suffering from trauma and shock, cancer treatment patients, maternity wards, people with blood disorders and organ transplant recipients, just to name a few. Please consider donating.</font></p>
<p><font style="font-size: 14px;" color="#000000">Their next regatta will be Saturday, October 8, in Lansing.&nbsp;</font></p>https://grrowing.org/news/4255180
https://grrowing.org/news/4255180Julie BennettSun, 14 Aug 2016 19:03:59 GMTThe Grand River Marathon Regatta<p>The 2nd Annual <a href="https://grrowing.org/event-2065785">Grand River Marathon Regatta</a> is right around the corner. We are looking forward to a great day with even more boats on our beautiful river! Be sure to reserve Saturday, September 10 on your calendar for the only marathon regatta east of the Mississippi. We have added a 1/2 marathon choice, so when you register, be sure to designate which race you'd like to challenge yourself to this year. Early registration is now open on <a href="https://www.regattacentral.com/regatta/index.jsp?job_id=4676" target="_blank">Regatta Central</a>.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4190608
https://grrowing.org/news/4190608Julie BennettTue, 12 Jul 2016 18:20:23 GMTThe Boys of '36<p><font color="#000000" face="Calibri, sans-serif">In the summer of 1936, nine working class young men from the University of Washington took the rowing world and the nation by a storm when they captured the gold medal at the Olympic Games in Berlin. Author Daniel James Brown wrote about this crew in his best-selling book "The Boys In The Boat", which is in production as a feature film. Join your rowing friends to view a special advance screening of an American Experience special (produced by PBS) about the crew. The screening will be at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Wealthy+Theatre/@42.9552653,-85.6429257,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x8819ad74d8e6fb31:0xf8e3455f1fd35788!8m2!3d42.9552653!4d-85.640737" target="_blank">Wealthy Theatre</a>, 1130 Wealthy St SE, following rec rowing on Wednesday, July 20. Doors open at 8 and the film starts at 8:30! Free parking is available on the street and to the rear of the theatre. Suggested donation is $5 at the door. Tell your friends to come join us and support the club while learning about this very cool part of rowing history!</font><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/4128021
https://grrowing.org/news/4128021Julie BennettFri, 24 Jun 2016 13:37:11 GMTThe Grand Regatta<p>It's here! <a href="https://grrowing.org/event-2164611">The Grand Regatta</a>, part of Meijer State Games, will be hosted by GRRA at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Riverside+Park+Dr+NE,+Grand+Rapids,+MI+49505/@43.0165241,-85.6676188,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x8819abf540931927:0x8919b3c0f0aedb8f!8m2!3d43.0165202!4d-85.6654248" target="_blank">Riverside Park</a> Saturday, June 25. There are over 200 entries, which translates into a full day of <a href="https://www.regattacentral.com/regatta/index.jsp?job_id=4675" target="_blank">racing</a> from 8am - 4pm. The park is going to be bustling with energy and excitement as teams from all over compete for the fastest time on the river. The beer tent will be open from noon - 6pm. Come and be a part of the fun!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4097857
https://grrowing.org/news/4097857Julie BennettTue, 21 Jun 2016 12:53:04 GMTTeam Store is Open!<p>Our club <a href="https://grrowing.org/store">store</a> is now open! Show your support of Grand Rapids Rowing Association&nbsp;and shop our store for hats, team apparel, jackets and more. The <a href="https://grrowing.org/store">store</a> will receive orders until July 1, 2016, at 11pm. Orders will be delivered to the boathouse 2-3 weeks after the store closes. &nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4088746
https://grrowing.org/news/4088746Julie BennettFri, 17 Jun 2016 13:56:48 GMTRed, White and Blue<p>We had the extreme privilege of hosting the Red, White, and Blue. This is an organization that promotes rowing to our amazing military veterans. What a great experience is was for our Masters members to host this wonderful group at our boathouse. They were gracious, enthusiastic and love their time on the Grand River. We anticipate future events with them and look forward to continuing this relationship.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4080973
https://grrowing.org/news/4080973Julie BennettSun, 05 Jun 2016 19:50:34 GMTLearn To Row Day A Great Success<p>Our community Learn To Row Day was a great success. We had over 50 new rowers on the water. There were lots of smiling faces and positive comments from those attending. Thanks to all the members who volunteered their time, energy and enthusiasm during Saturday's event. If you have friends and family who would love to try rowing, please invite them to our next free <a href="https://grrowing.org/events" target="_blank">Learn To Row</a> event on Saturday, July 16, from 9am - 1pm.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4058343
https://grrowing.org/news/4058343Julie BennettSun, 15 May 2016 23:36:43 GMTBBB Regatta<p>Be sure you keep Friday night, May 20, open for our first Boats, Beers and Burgers. We have over 20 Learn To Rowers who have practiced hard over the last six weeks and are regatta ready. Bring a dish to pass, your favorite cold beverage, and your race enthusiasm. We will mix boats with LTR, Recreational and Master rowers for a few fun 500m races.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/4021561
https://grrowing.org/news/4021561Julie BennettWed, 20 Apr 2016 22:06:40 GMTJunior Regatta<p>Our Junior teams will be hosting a regatta this Saturday, April 23 at the GRRA boathouse. All adult rowers are welcome to join the Junior team at the boathouse and help with docks, boats, hospitality and launch driving. There are 7 teams competing and some will be bringing their trailers in on Friday night. Racing will begin around 8:45 and end early afternoon. Volunteers are asked to park in the field.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3974685
https://grrowing.org/news/3974685Julie BennettFri, 08 Apr 2016 14:38:23 GMTLTR Day is canceled<p>Due to inclement weather, our Learn To Row Day this Saturday, April 9, is canceled. Safety needs to be our priority and the temperature will be too low to row safely on the water. We are looking forward to our spring <a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/classes">Learn To Row</a> classes that start on Monday and Tuesday. There is still room for more new rowers. Our next free <a href="https://grrowing.org/event-2182035">Learn To Row Day</a> is Saturday, June 4, and we hope to see you at the boathouse for a great day of rowing.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3935923
https://grrowing.org/news/3935923Julie BennettSat, 02 Apr 2016 15:15:00 GMTApril Happenings<p><em>There are April events you do not want to miss</em>. On Saturday, <strong>April 9</strong>, be sure to come out for the free LTR Day at the boathouse. If you are new to rowing, you will get a quick tour of the boathouse, practice on the ergs, safety guidelines and a chance to get out on the water. If you are a member, plan on spending the day helping out with registration, tours, erg technique and rowing. It's going to be a great day on the water!&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>April 11 and 12&nbsp;</strong>mark the start of our Spring LTR classes. We've got a great group signed up. If you are interested in coxing, be sure to contact Julie @ julie@grrowing.org.&nbsp;<br></p>
<p>Our monthly GRRA board meeting is <strong>Thursday, April 14</strong> @ the Comstock Library. Meeting begins at 7:00pm.</p>
<p>On <strong>April 16</strong>, there will be a christening of our new 4+ boats. Juniors and Adult rowers will gather to celebrate the purchase and river christening directly following the adult rowing and right before the juniors hit the water. For all adult rowers, STAY for the free <strong><a href="https://grrowing.org/event-2188369">Learn to Coxswain</a></strong> class from 10:30 - 12:30. It's important that all our rowing members feel confident coxing a boat and Judi is a fantastic teacher!&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3924844
https://grrowing.org/news/3924844Julie BennettMon, 28 Mar 2016 20:26:24 GMTMasters Competitive<p>If you've been rowing and are looking for a higher level of competition, join the Masters' program. This program meets 4 days a week; Mon, Tues, and Thurs nights along with Saturday morning. Chris Cullen is the coach again this year. He's fun, tough and will take you to a level you didn't think possible. Be sure to sign up for Masters when you renew your membership this year. Practices start now. The tentative regatta schedule is posted with the Master information on Adult Classes.&nbsp;</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3915121
https://grrowing.org/news/3915121Julie BennettFri, 18 Mar 2016 02:11:16 GMTDock In!<p>Come join the fun this Saturday, March 19. We will be celebrating the start of our spring season by putting in the dock. Work will begin at 9:00am and should end around 1:00pm. Dress to get a little wet and bring a sturdy pair of work gloves. There will be a pot luck lunch from 11:30 - 1:00, so bring a dish to pass. Remember, our Juniors are collecting orders for their Fruit Fundraiser (orders will be picked up at 10am) and we are collecting donations to purchase a new cox box. <em>Coaches: There is a mandatory meeting following the conclusion of dock in from 1:00 - 2:00pm.</em></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3888333
https://grrowing.org/news/3888333Julie BennettThu, 03 Mar 2016 04:31:11 GMTThe Team Store is Open<p>Click and check out the GRRA apparel. The store closes on March 12, so make your selections today! Boathouse apparel would be a great gift for yourself or your favorite rower. For more information, please contact Amy West or Tracy Shea.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3857460
https://grrowing.org/news/3857460Julie BennettWed, 24 Feb 2016 03:43:48 GMTSpring is Coming . . . join us on the river!<p>Grand Rapids Rowing Association is pleased to announce our line up of <a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/classes" target="_blank">Learn to Row classes</a> for 2016. Classes are available for anyone with little or no prior rowing experience as well as seasoned rowers seeking to improve their technique.</p>
<p>Our popular introductory class, <a href="/adult/classes#ltr100">Learn to Row Beginning Sweep Rowing (LTR 100)</a>, has been expanded to include morning classes, in addition to our regular evening classes. <a href="/adult/classes#ltr200">Intermediate Sweep Rowing (LTR 200)</a> focuses on regatta competition. Each LTR 200 class will compete at an official regatta in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor or Lansing. Many LTR 200 graduates go on to join our Masters adult competitive team. For those interested in sculling, rowing in smaller boats with two oars, <a href="/adult/classes#ltr300">LTR 300</a> and <a href="/adult/classes#ltr400">400</a> focus on sculling.</p>
<p>This year, we are expanding our <a href="/adult/classes#ltc100">Learn to Coxswain</a> class schedule. The coxswain (pronounced cox-in), who navigates as well as provides instructions to rowers, is a critical member of the rowing team. This one day class prepares you to navigate a 60 foot rowing shell on the water!</p>
<p>For details on any of our class offerings, see <a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/classes" target="_blank">Adult Classes</a>. Classes are open to anyone aged 13 or older. Students in 8th to 12th grade are encouraged to explore our <a href="https://grrowing.org/junior/novice">Junior Novice</a> program, which runs in the Spring, Summer, and Fall.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3840404
https://grrowing.org/news/3840404Julie BennettFri, 12 Feb 2016 04:22:19 GMTGRRA 2016 Board of Directors<p>On Wednesday, February 10, the Grand Rapids Rowing Association held its annual membership meeting. Attendance tripled over last year's membership meeting. The Board of Directors election was finalized. Here are your 2016 GRRA Board of Directors.</p>
<ul>
<li>President, Rob Shea<br></li>
<li>Vice President, Greg Momber<br></li>
<li>Past President, Landon Bartley<br></li>
<li>Treasurer, Caitlin Quantock<br></li>
<li>Secretary, Laurel Johnson<br></li>
<li>Boathouse Director, Walt Alexander<br></li>
<li>Communications Director, Julie Bennett<br></li>
<li>Membership Director, Amy West<br></li>
<li>Safety Director, Dr. Steve Lasater<br></li>
</ul>
<p>The board is looking forward to a prosperous year as we promote the sport of rowing to the Grand Rapids community.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3817658
https://grrowing.org/news/3817658Fri, 15 Jan 2016 16:05:00 GMTWinter Indoor Rowing Classes are now available<p>Rowing on the ergometer is a great way to stay in shape, practice the rowing stroke, and keep at the top of your game during the winter months. “Erging" is also great for learning the rowing stroke before rowing on the water. Personalized instruction is provided in each session, which is good for beginners, intermediate or advanced rowers. No prior experience is required.</p>
<p>Classes are available to the public, you do not need to be a Grand Rapids Rowing member or 8th Day Gym member to participate.</p><a href="https://grrowing.org/event-2141890">Class details and registration</a>
<p><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3761379
https://grrowing.org/news/3761379Fri, 15 Jan 2016 15:28:58 GMT2016 Junior Rowing<p>The schedule for our 2016 Junior rowing program is now available. This year, the spring program will be starting in March and indoors, to better prepare for the water. We will transition to the water in early April, after dock in. The summer and fall details are tentative, since not all regatta dates for the year have been posted.</p>
<p>The novice program will continue to be free in the spring and fall sessions.</p><a href="https://grrowing.org/junior/novice">Junior Novice program</a>
<p><br></p><a href="https://grrowing.org/junior/varsity">Junior Varsity program</a>https://grrowing.org/news/3761344
https://grrowing.org/news/3761344Tue, 07 Jul 2015 15:48:08 GMTRowapolooza<p><span style=""><em>Saturday, July 11, 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm</em></span></p>
<p>The club has seen tremendous growth this year. From membership, to learn to row classes, and the junior program, participation is up this year. While this is a great trend, it puts more pressure on our equipment for rowing and coaching. In order to support this growth, GRRA is hosting an important fundraiser on Saturday, July 11, Rowapolooza!</p>
<p>Rowapolooza features live music from several local bands playing everything from jazz to country music. &nbsp;There will also be a beer tent, grilled food to purchase, family activities and a 50/50 raffle. We have partnered with a few other local non-profit organizations that will be featured during the event, such as Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue that will have adoptable dogs.</p>
<p>This event is open to the public. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a great evening of food, drink and entertainment with your friends and family. $10.00 parking donation is requested.</p>
<p>Grand Rapids Rowing Association Boathouse<br>
<span style="">291 North Park St NW<br></span><span style="">Grand Rapids, MI 49544</span></p>
<p><span style=""><a href="https://grrowing.org/Resources/Documents/Rowapalooza-flyer.png" title="" target="_blank"><img src="https://grrowing.org/Resources/Documents/Rowapalooza-flyer.png" alt="" width="600" height="464" border="0"></a><br></span></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3424618
https://grrowing.org/news/3424618Tue, 03 Feb 2015 22:47:27 GMT2015 Spring Learn to Row Classes<p>We were pleased to bring back our popular <a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/classes">Learn to Row classes</a> this spring and summer! In 2015, we will offer eight beginning rowing courses, as well as intermediate level classes for those with a little bit of experience, including sculling and advanced sweep rowing technique.</p>
<p><i>Note: Member rates for classes will be available 4/6/15.</i></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3217164
https://grrowing.org/news/3217164Tue, 03 Feb 2015 22:45:45 GMTState Winter Games of Michigan<p>We are offering a virtual rowing competition as part of the 2015 Winter Games. You can row your race anytime until Feb 22. <a href="https://grrowing.org/event-1833083">Instructions here.</a> <a href="http://www.stategamesofmichigan.com/WGRowing">Register here</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3217171
https://grrowing.org/news/3217171Fri, 05 Sep 2014 14:52:47 GMTFall Team Apparel OrderThe team apparel store is open and accepting orders until September 12, 2014 at 11:30pm. Visit <a href="https://grrowing.org/store">http://grrowing.org/store</a> to view clothes and place an order.<br>https://grrowing.org/news/3093453
https://grrowing.org/news/3093453Tue, 19 Aug 2014 04:17:29 GMTUSRowing Masters Championship fills local hotels, provides revenue to GRGRAND RAPIDS, Mich. undefined Boaters and rowers alike filled the Grand River this weekend for the 2014 USRowing Masters National Championship Regatta.<br>
<br>
It’s the first year Grand Rapids has hosted the event, and organizers said that more than 1,500 participants came from far and wide, ready to spend money in Beer City, USA.<br>
<br>
Organizers said that the City of Grand Rapids has been the perfect host.
<p>Story and video at <a href="http://fox17online.com/2014/08/17/usrowing-masters-championship-fills-local-hotels-provides-revenue-to-gr/" target="_blank">Fox17</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3077825
https://grrowing.org/news/3077825Tue, 19 Aug 2014 04:07:28 GMTSmooth sailing for USRowing ChampionshipVideo at <a href="http://www.wzzm13.com/story/news/local/grand-rapids-north/2014/08/17/usrowing-grand-rapids/14202903/" target="_blank">wzzm13.com</a>.https://grrowing.org/news/3077818
https://grrowing.org/news/3077818Mon, 18 Aug 2014 21:42:03 GMTPotomac Boat Club Wins in Grand StyleGRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Washington D.C.’s Potomac Boat Club claimed the overall team points trophy at the 2014 USRowing Masters National Championships. Potomac dominated the rest of the field finishing with a total of 735 points and 30 gold medals.<br>
<br>
“The secret to the success is extremely hard work,” said Potomac men’s team captain, Ed Gehres. “We are a six day a week program with five days a week of organized coached practices. We’re consistently testing and training people of all from 22 to nearly 60 years old.”
<p>Story continued at <a href="http://www.usrowing.org/News/14-08-17/Potomac_Boat_Club_Wins_in_Grand_Style.aspx" target="_blank">USRowing</a>.</p>
<p><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3077655
https://grrowing.org/news/3077655Sat, 16 Aug 2014 21:29:49 GMTDay Three Recap at the 2014 USRowing Masters National ChampionshipsGRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Saturday was a hold-onto-your-hat kind of day at the 2014 USRowing Masters National Championships in Grand Rapids, Mich. Conditions were variable for the afternoon finals, with mild temperatures and gusts testing the stability of crews competing for titles in events 101-146.<br>
<br>
The tricky weather didn’t seem to be a problem for the women’s open B quadruple sculls crew, which was a composite of Bair Island Aquatic Center, Potomac Boat Club and Riverside Boat Club. Its members, Aisha Chow, Wendin Smith, Erica Stieve-Caldwell and Meghan Brundage raced to a 3:24.80 gold-medal finish.
<p>Story continued at <a href="http://www.usrowing.org/News/14-08-16/Day_Three_Recap_at_the_2014_USRowing_Masters_National_Championships.aspx" target="_blank">USRowing</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3077647
https://grrowing.org/news/3077647Sat, 16 Aug 2014 11:26:40 GMTA Toast to Detroit Boat Club on Day Two at the 2014 USRowing Masters National ChampionshipsGRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Competitors that have raced in multiple events were definitely feeling the burn on Friday, race day number two, at the 2014 USRowing Masters National Championships in Grand Rapids, Mich. The four-day event, hosted by Grand Rapids Rowing Association and the West Michigan Sports Commission, will see 199 national titles awarded before racing concludes on Sunday afternoon.<br>
<br>
Friday’s finals were followed by a very special occasion, as Detroit Boat Club Crew toasted to its 175th Anniversary with local craft beer on the banks of the Grand River.
<p>Story continued at <a href="http://www.usrowing.org/News/14-08-15/A_Toast_to_Detroit_Boat_Club_on_Day_Two_at_the_2014_USRowing_Masters_National_Championships.aspx" target="_blank">USRowing</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3075746
https://grrowing.org/news/3075746Fri, 15 Aug 2014 15:07:42 GMTUS Rowing Masters Nat'l Championship sets off in Grand Rapids<p>GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - Thousands of people from across the country are in West Michigan for a national sports competition.<br>
<br>
The U.S. Rowing Masters National Championship is underway in Grand Rapids, bringing hundreds of competitors to the Grand River.<br>
<br>
It marks the largest regatta ever held in Michigan, and it will be right in Grand Rapids. Over the next four days, 1,400 boats will be racing in 200 events.<br></p>
<p>Story continued at <a href="http://www.wwmt.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/US-Rowing-Masters-Nat-39-l-Championship-sets-off-in-Grand-Rapids-17932.shtml" target="_blank">WWMT</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3075323
https://grrowing.org/news/3075323Fri, 15 Aug 2014 13:23:03 GMTNational rowing championships come to Grand Rapids<p>GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Grand River is hosting a truly grand event as the 2014 US Rowing Masters National Championships comes to west Michigan for the first time.</p>
<p>Story continues at <a href="http://fox17online.com/2014/08/15/national-rowing-championships-come-to-grand-rapids/" target="_blank">Fox17</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3075234
https://grrowing.org/news/3075234Fri, 15 Aug 2014 13:09:42 GMT'Beer Regatta USA': Rowers, attendees enjoy local brews at Masters National Championships<p><span style="">GRAND RAPIDS, MI - As an estimated 1,500 rowers, 1,200 boats, 5,000 spectators and more than 140 national rowing clubs from around the country compete in 200 events at the Masters National Championships, West Michigan breweries are out in full force in Beer City, USA.</span><br></p>
<p>Story continued at <a href="http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2014/08/beer_regatta_usa_rowers_attend.html" target="_blank">Mlive</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3075226
https://grrowing.org/news/3075226Fri, 15 Aug 2014 12:59:03 GMTFifty-five National Champions Crowned in Grand Rapids<p>A cool, breezy day in Grand Rapids, Mich., led to a great first day of racing for several hundred competitors racing at the <a href="http://www.usrowing.org/Events/MastersNationals.aspx">2014 USRowing Masters National Championships.</a></p>
<p>Story continued at <a href="http://www.usrowing.org/News/14-08-14/Fifty-five_National_Champions_Crowned_in_Grand_Rapids.aspx" target="_blank">USRowing</a></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3075223
https://grrowing.org/news/3075223Wed, 13 Aug 2014 17:16:46 GMT1,500 rowers, 1,200 boats, 140 national clubs head to Riverside Park for national championships<p>GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Grand Rapids is about to turn into the rowing capital of the United States as some 1,500 rowers, 1,200 boats, and more than 140 national rowing clubs from around the country descend on Riverside Park for four days of competition.<br></p>
<p>Story continued at <a href="http://www.mlive.com/sports/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2014/08/1500_rowers_1200_boats_140_nat.html" target="_blank">MLive</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3075229
https://grrowing.org/news/3075229Wed, 13 Aug 2014 03:57:38 GMTHuge Rowing Event on the Grand River this weekend!Grand Rapids is expecting 5 thousand spectators, 1500 rowers, 1200 boats, and nearly 150 national rowing clubs from around the country this week. They are coming to GR to take part in the Masters National Championships on the Grand River. The tourists will spend about two million dollars during their visit.<br>
<br>
Story continued at <a href="http://www.woodradio.com/articles/wood-news-125494/huge-rowing-event-on-the-grand-river-this-weekend-12659767/#ixzz3Ao6D73fz" target="_blank">woodradio.com</a>.https://grrowing.org/news/3077811
https://grrowing.org/news/3077811Wed, 13 Aug 2014 00:03:39 GMTGrand Rapids Business Journal - Beer regatta flows into Grand RiverGrand Rapids hosts the first national rowing event ever in Michigan that will mix with one of the city’s proudest industries beginning Thursday at Riverside Park.
<p><br></p>
<p>Continued at <a href="http://www.grbj.com/articles/80321-beer-regatta-flows-into-grand-rapids" target="_blank">grbj.com</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3072342
https://grrowing.org/news/3072342Tue, 12 Aug 2014 23:58:05 GMTUSRowing - Masters Rowers Converge on Grand Rapids for National Championships<p><span style="">Masters rowers from across the country have already begun to trickle into Grand Rapids, Mich., for this week’s 2014 USRowing Master’s National Championships. The four-day event, which runs August 14-17, features 199 events across 11 age categories.</span><br></p>
<p>Continued at <a href="http://www.usrowing.org/News/14-08-12/Masters_Rowers_Converge_on_Grand_Rapids_for_National_Championships.aspx" target="_blank">usrowing.org</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3072329
https://grrowing.org/news/3072329Tue, 12 Aug 2014 03:13:12 GMTLandon Bartley guest blog on West Michigan Sports Commission<p><font color="#333333" face="Verdana, Tahoma, DejaVu Sans, sans-serif" size="2"><span style="line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"><b>Grand Rapids in National Rowing Spotlight with Masters Nationals</b></span></font></p>
<p><font color="#333333" face="Verdana, Tahoma, DejaVu Sans, sans-serif" size="2"><span style="line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">In just a few days, the first boats will be off the line speeding down the course at the 2014 USRowing Masters Nationals, the national championship regatta for adults that row in the United States.</span><br></font></p>
<p><font color="#333333" face="Verdana, Tahoma, DejaVu Sans, sans-serif" size="2"><span style="line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">Continued at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.westmisports.com/blog/grand-rapids-national-rowing-spotlight-masters-nationals" target="_blank">http://www.westmisports.com/blog/grand-rapids-national-rowing-spotlight-masters-nationals</a></span></font></p>
<div style="position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden; opacity: 0;" data-wawebkitpastecontainer="1">
<h2 style="font-size: 1.5em; color: rgb(0, 144, 210); font-weight: bold; font-family: Helvetica, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial; line-height: 26px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;">Grand Rapids in National Rowing Spotlight with Masters Nationals</h2>
</div>https://grrowing.org/news/3071357
https://grrowing.org/news/3071357Tue, 12 Aug 2014 03:04:15 GMTGRAND RAPIDS SHOWCASES WORLD-CLASS ROWING AND BEER AT 2014 USROWING MASTERS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS AUG. 14-17<p><b>West Michigan Sports Commission and Grand Rapids Rowing Association Host First National&nbsp;Rowing Event in Michigan, with Rowing Watch Party and “Beer Regatta” in Riverside Park</b><br>
<br>
<i>GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Aug. 11, 2014</i> – With a title like “Beer City USA,” it’s no surprise that Grand Rapids&nbsp;has a thriving craft beer culture. But many may not realize the city also has world-class rowing along the Grand&nbsp;River. These two Grand Rapids attributes will come together Aug. 14-17 for the 2014 USRowing Masters National&nbsp;Championships at Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NE in Grand Rapids.<br>
<br>
“This is going to be a fun spectator event, especially if you’ve never witnessed a rowing regatta,” said Mike&nbsp;Guswiler, president of the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC) who is co-hosting the event with the Grand&nbsp;Rapids Rowing Association. “We decided to pair a few of Grand Rapids’ most notable features – water and brews&nbsp;– to give viewers a great experience of watching national rowers along the Grand River while enjoying a craft beer&nbsp;garden at Riverside Park.”<br>
<br>
Drawing approximately 1,500 rowers, 1,200 boats, 5,000 spectators and more than 140 national rowing clubs&nbsp;competing in 200 events, the Masters National Championships is hosted annually by USRowing (nonprofit&nbsp;governing body for rowing in the United States) as its largest national event, featuring competitors over the age of&nbsp;21. The 2013 regatta in Sarasota, Fla., attracted 6,000 spectators over four days and generated an economic impact&nbsp;of $1.5 million. This year’s event has exceeded 2013 rowing participants and brings an estimated economic impact&nbsp;of $2 million to the region.<br>
<br>
“It is an incredible honor to host the first national rowing event in Michigan, let alone Grand Rapids,” said Landon&nbsp;Bartley, president of the Grand Rapids Rowing Association and local regatta director. “And it will be a sight to&nbsp;behold, with hundreds of boats, thousands of people, and high-intensity rowing right in front of you.”<br>
<br>
The rowing competition consists of 50 rowing events daily over four days of competition along a 1,000-meter, six-lane river course that begins in the middle of Riverside Park near Guild Street and ends at the south end of Riverside&nbsp;Park near Knapp Street. Heats run approximately three to four minutes long and take place in the morning, with&nbsp;medaling races in the afternoon. Rowing starts at 8 a.m. daily.<br>
<br>
<b>Visitor Information and Parking</b><br>
<br>
The regatta is free to watch, with designated viewing areas set up in Riverside Park, complete with large-screen&nbsp;monitors to show inaccessible parts of the course. The park will include a hospitality tent with tables and chairs&nbsp;plus a large screen to view the action, a grandstand for high views, plus an adjacent beer garden. A Vendor Village&nbsp;will feature local and national rowing merchandise plus a variety of food options, including Taco's El Cunado&nbsp;from Downtown Market, Madcap Coffee, Tiki Island Smoothies, Tim Hortons and Grand Rapids Junior Rowing&nbsp;Boosters, who will sell food and merchandise.<br>
<br>
Wednesday, Aug. 13 is a practice day from 1 to 5 p.m., and race days run Thursday, Aug. 14 through Saturday,&nbsp;Aug. 16 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 or 3 p.m.<br>
<br>
Free shuttles to the north end of Riverside Park begin running Aug. 13 from nine designated parking lots in&nbsp;downtown Grand Rapids. The shuttle schedule is as follows:<br>
<br>
Wednesday, Aug. 13 – Course Practice Day. Shuttle Hours: 1 – 7 p.m.<br>
Thursday, Aug. 14 – Race Day. Shuttle Hours: 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.<br>
Friday, Aug. 15 – Race Day. Shuttle Hours: 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.<br>
Saturday, Aug. 16 – Race Day. Shuttle Hours: 6 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.<br>
Sunday, Aug. 17 – Race Day. Shuttle Hours: 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.<br>
<br>
“Riverside Park is a fantastic place to watch rowing. I recommend spectators come down for an hour or two to&nbsp;relax and watch the regatta, visit our vendors in the hospitality area, grab a beer and some food, and enjoy the day,”&nbsp;advises Bartley. “You’ll see all manner and size of boats, plus all ages of competitors, from 27 to 90.”<br>
<br>
For event and Grand Rapids information, visit http://www.2014nationals.us/. Regatta team entries, heat sheets, and&nbsp;club listings can be found at RegattaCentral (www.regattacentral.com).<br>
<br>
<b>“Beer Regatta USA” at Riverside Park</b><br>
<br>
During the event, visitors can enjoy a “Beer Regatta USA” craft beer garden at Riverside Park adjacent to the&nbsp;hospitality area with 10 kinds of local craft beer on tap (including a custom beer made for this event) from five&nbsp;breweries each day. A brewery also will be featured daily (including practice day), with staff from that brewery on&nbsp;hand to answer questions. Brewers’ hours are 2 to 6 p.m. on the Wednesday practice day, and 12 to 3 p.m. daily for&nbsp;the race days.<br>
<br>
As a special feature, Gravel Bottom Brewery in Ada will brew a light American Pale Ale custom beer called&nbsp;Different Strokes: A Lawn Rower Beer, specifically for the regatta that can be sampled only at this event. Non-&nbsp;alcoholic beverages also will be available.<br>
<br>
Beer Regatta hours and daily featured brewers are as follows:<br></p><span style="">Weds., Aug. 13, 2 - 6 p.m. – Founders</span><br>
<span style="">Thursday, Aug. 14, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. – Schmohz Brewery</span><br>
<span style="">Friday, Aug. 15, 10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. – Brewery Vivant</span><br>
<span style="">Saturday, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. – New Holland Brewing</span><br>
<span style="">Sunday, Aug. 17, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. – Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery and Supply</span>
<p><b>Volunteers Still Needed for Event</b><br>
<br>
Volunteers are needed daily from Thursday, Aug. 14 through Sunday, Aug. 17, to help with all aspects of&nbsp;the event. Individuals will receive lunch during their shift and a tee-shirt, and they are invited to attend&nbsp;the Rowers’ Reception Friday evening. For volunteer information and to register for a shift, visit <a href="http://2014nationals.us/volunteer" target="_blank">http://2014nationals.us/volunteer</a>.<br>
<br>
<i>About the West Michigan Sports Commission</i><br>
<br>
The West Michigan Sports Commission, a non-profit 501 (c) (3), identifies, secures and hosts a diverse level of&nbsp;youth and amateur sporting events to positively impact the region’s economy and quality of life. Since its inception&nbsp;in 2007, the WMSC has booked 370 sporting events and tournaments attracting 540,000 athletes and visitors,&nbsp;generating more than $175 million in direct visitor spending. Visit <a href="http://westmisports.com" target="_blank">westmisports.com</a> for more information.<br>
<br>
<i>About the Grand Rapids Rowing Association</i><br>
<br>
Rowing in Grand Rapids has a long and storied history, with records of rowing on the Grand River dating back&nbsp;to as early as the 1890s. The Grand Rapids Rowing Association (GRRA) was incorporated in 1986 to organize&nbsp;rowing in the areas and runs high school, corporate and adult recreational and competitive rowing programs, as well&nbsp;as the popular Learn to Row classes. It also hosts several rowing regattas each year. Visit <a href="https://grrowing.org/" target="_blank">grrowing.org</a> for more&nbsp;information.<br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3071355
https://grrowing.org/news/3071355Sun, 10 Aug 2014 18:38:01 GMTMasters Nationals Championship Regatta<div>
<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">The largest regatta ever held in Michigan is coming to Grand Rapids. The 2014 USRowing Masters Nationals Championship Regatta is bringing thousands of rowers to Riverside Park for four days of competition.&nbsp;Over 1,400 boats will be racing in 200 events. 120 rowing clubs are&nbsp;traveling&nbsp;from as far as the&nbsp;District of Columbia,&nbsp;San Diego and Alaska. Masters rowers are classified in age categories from 21 to 80 and older.</span><br style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
<br>
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
When: August 14 to 17, races start every 4 minutes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
Where: Riverside Park
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
Admission: Free
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
Parking: There is no parking for&nbsp;athletes&nbsp;and spectators at Riverside Park. A free shuttle bus from downtown Grand Rapids to Riverside Park.
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
<br>
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
The&nbsp;Masters Nationals Championship Regatta&nbsp;is hosted by the Grand Rapids Rowing Association, the West Michigan Sports Commission and USRowing.
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
<br>
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
Regatta Event:&nbsp;<a href="http://2014nationals.us/">http://2014nationals.us</a>
</div>
<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Tahoma; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2; font-size: medium;">
Regatta Event Mobile (parking):&nbsp;<a href="http://m.2014nationals.us/">http://m.2014nationals.us</a>
</div>
</div>https://grrowing.org/news/3070084
https://grrowing.org/news/3070084Wed, 23 Jul 2014 02:16:46 GMTWhat Old is New Again For The Grand Rapids Rowing Association<p>With the 2014 US Rowing Masters National Championships rapidly approaching, Grand&nbsp;Rapids Rowing Association takes a moment to sweep back in time.<br>
<br>
In March of 1921, The Grand Rapids Progress, published by the Grand Rapids Association&nbsp;of Commerce, announces a big rowing regatta to be hosted by the city of Grand Rapids.<br>
<br>
Shown on page 2 in the following article.<br></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Grand Rapids Secures Big Rowing Regatta</b></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; border: none; border-image-source: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-width: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; padding: 0px;">
<p>The Grand Rapids Boat and Canoe Club and the Grand Rapids Association of&nbsp;Commerce joined in extending an invitation to the Central States Rowing Association&nbsp;to hold its 1921 regatta in this city this summer.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; border: none; border-image-source: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-width: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; padding: 0px;">
<p>Rowing teams from Grand Rapids have participated in these annual regattas during the&nbsp;past several years, winning several trophies and as the river north of the Boat and&nbsp;Canoe Club house is on of the best rowing courses in the United States a successful&nbsp;regatta is assured if held at Grand Rapids.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; border: none; border-image-source: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-width: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; padding: 0px;">
<p>The invitation was taken to St. Louis personally by president Clare Fox of the Grand&nbsp;Rapids Boat and Canoe Club and Herbert S. Conlon of the Grand Rapids Press and a&nbsp;former medal winner in the Central States regattas.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; border: none; border-image-source: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-width: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; padding: 0px;">
<p>Chairman Conlon being an older timer with the blades and knowing the necessary&nbsp;requirements for a regatta went to the St. Louis meeting armed with photographs&nbsp;showing the course from every conceivable angle, the club house and its surroundings&nbsp;and as a result competing cities threw up their hands and joined in the unanimous vote&nbsp;that Grand Rapids will be honored with the 1921 regattas.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; border: none; border-image-source: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-width: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; padding: 0px;">
<p>President Hadwiger of the Central States Rowing Association, who recently visited&nbsp;Grand Rapids, presented a report of his visit in which he commended the local club&nbsp;very highly. As a result, Grand Rapids will be the center of on of the biggest and most&nbsp;interesting sporting events to take place this summer in this section or throughout the&nbsp;country for that manner and must assume her full responsibility toward making the&nbsp;Central States Rowing Association fell that the Grand Rapids sponsors were not over&nbsp;enthusiastic as to Grand Rapids right to have the regatta held here.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; border: none; border-image-source: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-width: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; padding: 0px;">
<p><a href="https://grrowing.org/resources/documents/The_Grand_Rapids_Spectator.pdf" target="_blank">Click to download article pdf</a>.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><span>The August, 1921 Club News would later recap the event on pages 2-6 of its magazine.</span></p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>The Central States Amateur Rowing Association’s Annual Regatta was held under the&nbsp;auspices of the Grand Rapids Boat and Canoe Club on the Grand River at Grand&nbsp;Rapids, Michigan Friday and Saturday, July 8th and 9th, 1921.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0 0 0 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">
<p><span>It was the best regatta in the history of the Association. The weather was fine, the&nbsp;entries were big, the crews were of high class, the races were keenly contested and the&nbsp;attendance was large. 94 crews rowed, 45 on Junior Day and 49 on Senior Day. It is&nbsp;stated that this is the largest rowing regatta held in the United States since the war…</span></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="margin: 0 0 0 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">
<p><span><a href="https://grrowing.org/resources/documents/The_Club_News.pdf" target="_blank">Click to download full article</a>.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p><span><br>
It is a great time to remember Grand Rapids lengthy rowing history as the USRowing&nbsp;Masters National Championships prepare to roll into town on August 14-17. By honoring&nbsp;the clubs that have come before us, we gain an appreciation for the hard work, dedication&nbsp;and passion for those who choose to set a boat.<br>
<br>
Whether it’s almost a century ago or current day, the river will forever remember, as should&nbsp;we, that Grand Rapids will always put on a great show.</span></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218897
https://grrowing.org/news/3218897Mon, 21 Jul 2014 01:50:14 GMTGet Fit: First time rowing on the water<p><span style="">GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) -- Jennifer, Alana, Val, and Erin hit the water for the first time in this week's Get Fit with the Grand Rapids Rowing Association!</span><br></p>
<p><a href="http://www.wzzm13.com/story/life/wellness/get-fit/2014/07/20/grand-rapids-rowing-association/12908065/" target="_blank">Story and video at WZZM.</a></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218887
https://grrowing.org/news/3218887Sun, 20 Jul 2014 01:47:17 GMTGet Fit: The basics of rowing<p><span style="">Grand Rapids (WZZM) - Four WZZM 13 team members have taken on a new Get Fit challenge. They are giving rowing a try, but there's a competitive element to this particular activity.</span><br></p>
<p><a href="http://www.wzzm13.com/story/news/local/grand-rapids-north/2014/07/19/get-fit-the-basics-of-rowing/12784335/" target="_blank">Story and video at WZZM</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218886
https://grrowing.org/news/3218886Mon, 14 Jul 2014 01:18:38 GMTGet Fit: Learning to row with the Grand Rapids Rowing AssociationGRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WZZM) -- It's week one so Jennifer, Val, Alana, and Erin are learning the basics of rowing from the Grand Rapids Rowing Association.<br>
<br>
They talked with Elizabeth Embick, a Learn to Row Coach, about what classes are available, the equipment they would be using, and how much work has to be put into rowing.
<p><a href="http://www.wzzm13.com/story/life/wellness/get-fit/2014/07/13/get-fit-learning-to-row-with-the-grand-rapids-rowing-association/12591553/" target="_blank">See video at WZZM</a>.</p>
<p><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218876
https://grrowing.org/news/3218876Sat, 05 Jul 2014 01:39:10 GMTRowing on Your Backyard River“The sport grabbed me from the start. I loved everything about it — being outside,&nbsp;enjoying nature, being on the water, the sense of teamwork, the camaraderie,” – Deb&nbsp;Suttner<br>
<br>
It was the first Boats, Brews and Burgers celebration that is held after each four week Learn to&nbsp;Row class. Members of the Grand Rapids Rowing Association and the new rowers mixed&nbsp;together to have an informal race on the Grand River, simply for fun. When everyone got off the&nbsp;water and stood on the dock clapping for each other, president Landon Bartley was flooded with&nbsp;joy. After all the years of struggling to accelerate the association, at that moment he was baffled.<br>
<br>
“Holy cow. This is actually working. People actually love this,” he thought.
<p><a href="http://womenslifestyle.com/rowing-on-your-backyard-river/" target="_blank">Continued at Women's Lifestyle</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218884
https://grrowing.org/news/3218884Sun, 22 Jun 2014 17:51:52 GMTMlive article on members at Grand Regatta<p>An Alaskan corporate challenge is what put Brian Donnelly into his first shell.<br>
<br>
The 60-year-old sculler joined Deb Suttner, 50 a member of the Grand Rapids Rowing<br>
<br>
Association, at the 27th annual Grand Regatta on Saturday at Riverside Park in a quest to medal&nbsp;and prepare for the USRowing Masters National Championships in August.<br>
<br>
"(My company) put four inexperienced rowers in a boat and I liked it," Donnelly said.<br></p><a href="http://www.mlive.com/sports/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2014/06/state_games_rowing_on_the_gran.html" target="_blank">Rowing on the Grand River provides outlet for competitive drive</a>
<p>Rowing photos 17 through 29 of 73.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3019377
https://grrowing.org/news/3019377Mon, 02 Jun 2014 19:24:19 GMTJunior Summer Session open for registration<p>The Summer 2014 session for Junior rowers starts on June 9th. <a href="https://grrowing.org/event-915560">Registration is now open.</a></p>https://grrowing.org/news/2998553
https://grrowing.org/news/2998553Sat, 19 Apr 2014 17:07:15 GMTSpring has SprungThe Spring season for <a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/current">Adult Masters Competitive rowing</a>, <a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/current">Adult Recreation rowing</a> and <a href="https://grrowing.org/junior/current">Junior</a> rowing has begun. Sign-ups are open for <a href="https://grrowing.org/adult/classes">Learn to Row classes</a>. Join us on the water!https://grrowing.org/news/1540861
https://grrowing.org/news/1540861Sun, 16 Mar 2014 15:18:51 GMTSt. Patrick's Day Parade photos<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=oa.684671114907679&amp;type=1" target="_blank">Photos from St. Patrick's Day parade</a>https://grrowing.org/news/1518590
https://grrowing.org/news/1518590Sat, 08 Mar 2014 21:16:39 GMTMarch 13th Board Meeting<p>The <a href="https://grrowing.org/ViewEvent.ashx?eventId=808250">March 13th Board Meeting</a> will feature a session on fundraising and sponsorships for the 2014 USRowing Masters Nationals Championships regatta. The regatta is a showcase event for our organization and requires the support of our membership. We’ll be providing the tools you need to work with potential sponsors. Your support is critical to our success!</p>
<p>The board meeting will be on March 13th, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Micron Manufacturing, 1722 Kloet NW.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/1513531
https://grrowing.org/news/1513531Sat, 08 Mar 2014 21:15:14 GMTSt. Patricks Day Parade<p>All adult and junior rowers are welcome to join our "flotilla" in the St. Patricks Day Parade on March 15th. All past and present rowers are welcome! We will be hauling the trailer and showcasing our shells in the parade. Meet at 9:30 am on Lyon between Ottawa and Monroe. Rowers, please wear team logo clothes (jackets, hats, pants, etc.), comfortable shoes and dress warmly. No additional candy donations are needed. Thanks to those who donated!</p>https://grrowing.org/news/1513530
https://grrowing.org/news/1513530Sat, 08 Mar 2014 20:58:10 GMTGrand Rapids Spring Sprints<span id="docs-internal-guid-5bb932c6-a37e-8207-ad6f-3f656038a080">The <a href="https://grrowing.org/ViewEvent.ashx?eventId=867125">Grand Rapids Spring Sprints</a> junior ergatta will be held at Forest Hills Central on March 22nd from 9am to Noon. Our juniors have worked hard to condition for this event. Everyone is welcome to join us in cheering on our juniors in this event.</span>https://grrowing.org/news/1513523
https://grrowing.org/news/1513523Sat, 01 Mar 2014 17:30:00 GMTDock In on Saturday, March 29<div><img src="https://grrowing.org/resources/img/IMG_7880_320x160.jpg" alt="Dock on Grand River" width="320" height="160"></div>
<p>Dock in, the start of spring season, will take place at the boathouse on Saturday, March 29, beginning at 10 a.m. Just like being in a shell with your crew, it's best if everyone is taking part!</p>https://grrowing.org/news/1512816
https://grrowing.org/news/1512816Sat, 01 Mar 2014 17:00:00 GMTClasses in March<div><img src="https://grrowing.org/resources/img/IMG_1539_320x160.jpg" alt="Indoor Rowing Center" width="320" height="160"></div>
<p><a href="https://grrowing.org/events?eventId=823035&amp;EventViewMode=EventDetails&amp;utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=march&amp;utm_campaign=Newsletter">Indoor Rowing 202: Power &amp; Technical Competence</a><br>
Tuesday and Thursdays, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.<br>
March 4th to 13th</p>
<p><a href="https://grrowing.org/events?eventId=808244&amp;EventViewMode=EventDetails&amp;utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=march&amp;utm_campaign=Newsletter">Wyandotte Boat Club weekend</a><br>
March 8th to 9th in Wyandotte, MI</p>
<p><a href="https://grrowing.org/events?eventId=822791&amp;EventViewMode=EventDetails&amp;utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=march&amp;utm_campaign=Newsletter">Indoor Rowing 103: Indoor Rowing Elements</a><br>
Tuesday and Thursdays, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.<br>
March 18th to 27th</p>https://grrowing.org/news/1512817
https://grrowing.org/news/1512817Sat, 01 Mar 2014 16:30:00 GMTSt. Patrick's Day ParadeThe Junior rowing team will be marching in the St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 15th. All past and present junior rowers are welcome! Meet at 9:30 am on Lyon between Ottawa and Monroe. Juniors, please wear team logo clothes (jackets, hats, pants, etc.), comfortable shoes and dress warmly.<br>
<br>
Donations of small-size candy (smarties, tootsie rolls, suckers, etc.), that the juniors will be passing out during the parade, are appreciated. Candy can be dropped off at the Indoor Rowing Center (Roger's Plaza) by March 8.https://grrowing.org/news/1512818
https://grrowing.org/news/1512818Sat, 01 Mar 2014 16:00:00 GMTMasters Nationals Regatta Sponsorships<div><img src="https://grrowing.org/resources/img/USRowing-Masters-Logo-230x160.png" alt="USRowing Masters logo" width="230" height="160"></div>
<p>The 2014 USRowing Masters Nationals Championships will be held in Grand Rapids from August 14th to 17th. This will be the largest regatta that we've ever hosted.</p>
<p>Sponsorships are now available for this event. Here is a packet of information for you to share with potential sponsors. <a href="http://2014nationals.us/sponsorpacket.pdf">http://2014nationals.us/sponsorpacket.pdf</a></p>https://grrowing.org/news/1512821
https://grrowing.org/news/1512821Sat, 01 Mar 2014 15:30:00 GMTMasters Nationals Volunteer Leaders<p>We are looking for ten people who would like to be volunteer leaders for Masters Nationals August 12-18.</p>
<p>Each leader will be responsible for providing training and communication for his/her assigned volunteers, as well as making sure the volunteers have the supplies they will need.</p>
<p>You will be given tons of support (including the volunteers and written instructions and supply lists)!</p>
<p>The volunteer areas are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Launch drivers/stake-dock holders/docks/bow numbers</li>
<li>Maintenance (ie, gas/dock repairs)</li>
<li>Finish/Start/Aligner/Results</li>
<li>Registration/HQ/weigh-ins/medals/announcer</li>
<li>Communications</li>
<li>Set up/Tear down</li>
<li>Groundskeeping (trash/recycling/Porta-johns)</li>
<li>Hospitality tents/Volunteer meals</li>
<li>Parking (shuttles, golf carts, in-park logistics)</li>
<li>Beer garden</li>
</ul>
<p>If you are interested in taking one of the volunteer leadership positions, contact <a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm&amp;fs=1&amp;tf=1&amp;to=deanna@grrowing.org" target="_blank">deanna@grrowing.org</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/1512823
https://grrowing.org/news/1512823Sat, 01 Mar 2014 15:00:00 GMTMasters Nationals Volunteers<p>We will need a large number of volunteers for this event. You and groups of vounteers can register to be a volunteer here: <a href="http://2014nationals.us/volunteer?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=march&amp;utm_campaign=Newsletter">http://2014nationals.us/volunteer</a></p>https://grrowing.org/news/1512825
https://grrowing.org/news/1512825Sat, 01 Mar 2014 14:30:00 GMTAnnual Membership Meeting<p>Board member elections were held at the annual membership meeting on February 20th. Here are your 2014 board of directors.</p>
<ul>
<li>President - Landon Bartley</li>
<li>Vice-President - Jordan Hefferan</li>
<li>Treasurer - Caitlin Quantock</li>
<li>Secretary - Karin Cramer</li>
<li>Boathouse Director - Walt Alexander</li>
<li>Communications Director - Rob Shea</li>
<li>Membership Director - Amy West</li>
<li>Safety Director - Renee Zuidema</li>
</ul>
<p>The next board meeting will be on March 13th, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Micron Manufacturing, 1722 Kloet NW.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/1512826
https://grrowing.org/news/1512826Sat, 01 Mar 2014 14:00:00 GMTgrrowing.org Redesign and Photos<p>A redesign of our web site is in progress. The new design features photography from our members. If you have any photos that you’d like to contribute to the new design, please contact <a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm&amp;fs=1&amp;tf=1&amp;to=rob@grrowing.org" target="_blank">rob@grrowing.org</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/1512828
https://grrowing.org/news/1512828Wed, 21 Aug 2013 22:46:06 GMTGrand Rapids docks USRowing championshipsA year from now, Grand Rapids will become home to some world-class rowing, thanks to a hard-working West Michigan Sports Commission and a dedicated group of local rowing enthusiasts.<br>
<br>
“World-class rowing”<br>
<br>
WMSC has revealed that Grand Rapids will host the 2014 USRowing Masters National Championships next Aug. 14-17, at Riverside Park on Monroe Avenue along the beautiful banks of the Grand River.
<p>Continued at <a href="http://www.grbj.com/articles/77622-grand-rapids-docks-usrowing-championships" target="_blank">grbj.com</a>.</p>
<p><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3217195
https://grrowing.org/news/3217195Fri, 16 Aug 2013 01:15:13 GMTGrand Rapids to Host 2014 USRowing Masters National ChampionshipsGrand Rapids, Mich., has been selected as the site of the 2014 USRowing Masters National Championships, the organization announced on Thursday. The event, hosted by West Michigan Sports Commission and Grand Rapids Rowing Association, is scheduled for August 14-17, 2014.<br>
<br>
“This win is a testament to the strength of West Michigan as a rowing destination,” said Mike Guswiler, president of the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC), who submitted the winning bid along with the Grand Rapids Rowing Association. “We always knew we had a world-class rowing offering here between our natural resource of the Grand River, great venues like Riverside Park and exciting nearby attractions – and now the national rowing community will know it with USRowing selecting Grand Rapids as the host city for the 2014 Masters National Championships.”
<p>Continue at <a href="http://www.usrowing.org/news/13-08-15/Grand_Rapids_to_Host_2014_USRowing_Masters_National_Championships.aspx" target="_blank">USRowing</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218874
https://grrowing.org/news/3218874Fri, 12 Jul 2013 03:01:09 GMTA Wake and Aweigh: The History and Future of Grand Rapids Rowing Association<p><span style="font-family: Palatino, Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">"People may have seen us on the river now and then, or at regattas in the park, but just may not know the extent and the history," says Landon Bartley, president of Grand Rapids Rowing Association (GRRA). "Rowing has been around in Grand Rapids a lot longer than people think."</span><br style="font-family: Palatino, Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
<br style="font-family: Palatino, Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
<span style="font-family: Palatino, Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">In fact, the first records of rowing in Grand Rapids are from the 1880s, and the first boathouse for the city's rowing club was built in 1910 at North Park NE and Monroe. That boathouse was destroyed in a fire in 1960, and the popularity of the sport on the Grand River waned.</span><br></p>
<p><font face="Palatino, Georgia, Times, Times New Roman, serif, WaWebKitSavedSpanIndex_2"><span style=""><a href="http://www.rapidgrowthmedia.com/features/07112013rowing.aspx" target="_blank">Story continues at Rapid Growth</a>.</span></font></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218916
https://grrowing.org/news/3218916Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:37:10 GMTRegatta preparations: Learning to row next on to-do list for sports reporterStanding on the floating dock of the Grand Rapids Rowing Association (GRRA), I found myself in a situation I'm not used to.<br>
<br>
I was about to try something I've never done before: Rowing a sculling shell.<br>
<br>
With the 2012 Mid-American Collegiate Rowing Association Championship Regatta (MACRA) coming up next weekend, I decided I needed to know what this sport was all about.<br>
<br>
What better way than to plunge (hopefully not) right in and try it out. I'm a pretty outgoing guy, not usually afraid of a challenge, and I was approaching it with a fair amount of confidence.
<p>Continue reading and view the video at <a href="http://www.mlive.com/sports/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2012/04/learning_to_row_next_on_to_do.html" target="_blank">MLive.com</a>.</p>
<p><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3217189
https://grrowing.org/news/3217189Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:30:00 GMTRowing 101: Get in your shells, listen to your coxswain and hope you don't 'catch a crab'For most people, the act of rowing involves a wide aluminum boat, their grandparents' pond and the probability of going around in circles until someone comes to tow you to shore.<br>
<br>
That's not what we're going to be talking about here.<br>
<br>
The Grand Rapids Rowing Association is hosting the 2012 Mid-American Collegiate Rowing Association Championship Regatta (MACRA) in just over a week and its time to learn some sport speak.<br>
<br>
Regatta is either derived from the Italian word for "line" (as in starting line) or the Latin words for "race" or "oar," experts haven't sorted that out. But what we know is that it's about people rowing in long, thin boats and trying to finish first.<br>
<p>For the complete story go to <a href="http://www.mlive.com/sports/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2012/04/rowing_101_get_in_your_shells.html" target="_blank">MLive</a><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3217071
https://grrowing.org/news/3217071Tue, 20 Mar 2012 18:31:00 GMTGrand Rapids Rowing Association to host collegiate regatta in Grand RiverMore than a thousand athletes will be converging on Grand Rapids at the end of April to compete on the Grand River in the Mid American Collegiate Rowing Association (MACRA) Championship Regatta, organizers announced today.<br>
<br>
Big Ten teams, Notre Dame and others involved in MACRA will compete in the regatta, which will have multiple heat races starting at 8 a.m., with final races finishing late in the afternoon on April 28.<br>
<br>
The races, which will be free for spectators to watch, will start at Riverside Park and finish just north of Ann Street on the north side of Grand Rapids. The event is being hosted by the Grand Rapids Rowing Association and promoted by newly formed group "This is How We Row," dedicated to promoting the sport of rowing and organizing host families and volunteers for the event.<br>
<br>
Docks and lanes will start to appear in the river in coming weeks as preparations are made for nearly 1,500 athletes to compete on the 2,000-meter course, said Fred Keller, CEO of Cascade Engineering.<br>
<br>
Keller, a former crew member at Cornell University, described the importance of teamwork in these rowing events.<br>
<br>
"It's a very different sport than other team sports," he said. "In this sport, you're feeling like you're part of the shell (of the boat). You're trying to make every ounce of your energy work to make sure you have a successful boat."<br>
<br>
Grand Rapids Rowing Association president Landon Bartley loves the idea of hosting such a large event on the Grand River.<br>
<br>
"This is one of the best rowing venues in the Midwest," Bartley said. "It's wide and fairly shallow and even and sheltered and it's beautiful. It's a great spectator area at Riverside Park, and so it really wasn't too hard to convince the coaches to come back."<br>
<br>
To read complete article go to <a href="http://www.mlive.com/sports/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2012/03/grand_rapids_rowing_associatio.html" target="_blank">MLive</a>
<p><br></p>https://grrowing.org/news/3217045
https://grrowing.org/news/3217045Sat, 28 May 2011 03:12:11 GMTGrand Rapids Rowing Association gets Mayor Heartwell on the Grand River<p style="color: rgb(54, 54, 54); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">GRAND RAPIDS - Mayor George Heartwell blended right in with eight rowers as they hauled a 54-foot row boat on their shoulders to the dock near the Grand Rapids Boathouse, 291 North Park Street NW, on Friday morning.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(54, 54, 54); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">The rowers gently placed the 250-pound, eight-person shell into the Grand River and jumped into the sliding seats before strapping their feet into the built-in shoes in the boat. The ninth person on the boat, the leading coxswain, sits facing the rowers in the very front of the shell, giving directions through a microphone.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(54, 54, 54); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><a href="http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2011/05/grand_rapids_rowing_associatio.html" target="_blank">Story, video and photos at Mlive</a>.</p>https://grrowing.org/news/3218920
https://grrowing.org/news/3218920Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:30:00 GMTGrand Rapids Rowing Unites Different Schools Into A CrewWhat divides them is what unites them. About 45 kids from various high schools across Grand Rapids get into rowing shells and become a team. They have no school spirit to work with, no school mascot to rally around. This is about building teamwork, camaraderie, and ultimately, tapping competitive spirit.<br>
<br>
After practicing together four evenings a week for nine weeks, two hours at a time, they learn to row in sync and become a crew. When they step into a boat at a regatta, it’s not about being from Ottawa Hills or City High School – it’s about being from Grand Rapids Crew.<br>
<br>
Besides City and Ottawa Hills, kids on the Grand Rapids Crew come from Catholic Central, Grand Rapids Christian, West Catholic, and suburban schools like Comstock Park and Kenowa Hills. Some are also home schooled. This is also recruiting time, so the list of schools may grow.<br>
<br>
Landon Bartley, men’s varsity coach, says they’ve always been a community program, accepting kids from wherever in the Grand Rapids area there is interest. Rockford, Forest Hills, and East Grand Rapids all have their own programs with school identities. Not so with Grand Rapids. “We’ve never had a problem with kids from other schools,” he says about kids who dig meeting other new kids. “We say, ‘You wanna beat Rockford?’ and they say, ‘Yeah!’” In rowing, it’s boat against boat."<br>
<br>
The sun snuggles toward the horizon as the launch and shells pull up to the dock, oars are freed from their oarlocks, and rowers heft the equipment the long walk back up to the boathouse. The Grand Rapids Crew operates out of the Grand Rapids Rowing Association facilities in Comstock Park, just upstream from the original Boat and Canoe Club in North Park. Practices are Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. This crew will pick up in a couple of days where they left off, building teamwork, camaraderie, and competitive spirit.<br>
<br>
To read complete article go to <a href="http://therapidian.org/community-rowing-program-unites-different-schools-crew" target="_blank">The Rapidian</a>https://grrowing.org/news/3216999
https://grrowing.org/news/3216999